About Our Full Face Helmet Recommendations
Founded in 2000, our team at wBW has collectively tested more than 2,500 helmets, jackets, boots, gloves, accessories, and more. We do not fluff reviews. A riders safety is heavily dictated by how they ride and what they wear while doing so. Our goal is to help riders make informed decisions about the gear they invest in to protect themselves.
wBW is funded by our audience. Our recommendations and reviews may contain affiliate links that earn us a small comission if you make a purchase after clicking them. This is the primary way we fund our website and pay our review team (and comes at no additional cost to you). We disclose our relationship with brands or manufacturers for transparency. For more information about our extensive review process, see our review policies.
Best Entry-Level Full Face Motorcycle Helmets
Priced under $300.
Scorpion EXO-T520
Price: $199
Where to Buy: RevZilla | J&P Cycles
Why?
Scorpion is entering 2022 swinging, with the EXO-T520 helmet releasing just this past month in October 2021. Part of the company’s well-known “trickle down” effect, the T520 incorporates all the best parts of the top-tier EXO-R1 and EXO-ST1400 helmets, but at an affordable price for most riders.
The shell shape is an aggressive but smooth swoop, feeding the aerodynamically tuned top ventilation ram-air intakes. The visor includes the Ellip-Tec II ratchet pull system from the higher end helmets, which pulls the visor back into the visor port gasket when fully closed. The helmet also features the innovative AirFit system from the EXO-R1 Air models, which ensure a tight but comfortable fit for every ride.
The Scorpion EXO-T520 is DOT and ECE 22.05 certified.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Intermediate oval
Weight: 3.5lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT & ECE certified
Our Review
We have not yet tested the EXO-T520 as of yet, but we do know that one will be coming our way relatively soon, so keep your eyes on webBikeWorld for that review! See all our Scorpion coverage.
HJC i10
Price: Up to $159
Where to Buy: RevZilla | Amazon | J&P Cycles
Why?
The HJC i10 returns to the recommended list for 2022 because of three main factors.
The first is that the helmet is well under $200, and for that price it is an absolutely ludicrous bargain. This helmet should, realistically, be in the $300+ range, but HJC has steadfastly kept it down at $160 to make sure that all who want the helmet can buy it.
The second main factor is that this helmet is the result of thousands of hours of research, design, testing, and real-world data gained from MotoGP and WorldSBK HJC helmets. The result is an amazingly aggressive, yet sleek helmet with a high quality composite shell and race-grade EPS lining and padding inside.
The third reason is that despite the price, in all shell sizes bar 3XL, the HJC i10 is fully SNELL M2020 rated, and to this day is the least expensive helmet to carry that rating. SNELL rated helmets are needed to attend many track days around North America, and they must be able to withstand impact forces at race speeds. This helmet meets those criteria.
This helmet, as long as it remains on the market, is an absolute bargain and deserves to be on the helmet shelf of any sport rider.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Intermediate oval
Weight: 3.88 lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT & SNELL M2020 certified
Our Review
This helmet has become the go-to daily rider for Simon, one of our intrepid reviewers—who, since his review in August 2021, has put on at least another 2,000 kilometers of riding under its protective shell. Read the full review here!
LS2 Arrow EVO
Price: Up to 279.99
Where to Buy: RevZilla | Amazon | J&P Cycles
Why?
The Arrow EVO is the most recent full face helmet from the Spanish helmet maker LS2. The interesting thing about the helmet is that it has the specs and performance of a mid-range, but sneaks into the entry level range in terms of pricing.
The shell is made from HPFC (High-Performance Fiberglass Composite), keeping the shell strong but light. This is backed by multi-layer, multi-density EPS foam, over which laser cut and motorsports oriented pads and lining sit. The biggest feature of the Arrow EVO is its very aerodynamic shape, reducing noise while also preventing buffeting of your head in windy conditions.
The LS2 Arrow EVO carries a full DOT and ECE 22.05 certification.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Long oval
Weight: 3.74 lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT and ECE 22.05 certified
Our Review
We haven’t been able to get our hands on this helmet yet as it has just been released, but rest assured that we will endeavour to get a test and review done as soon as we are able to! See all our LS2 coverage.
Best Mid-Range Full Face Motorcycle Helmets
Priced $300 - $550.
AGV K6
Price: $449
Where to Buy: RevZilla | Amazon | J&P Cycles
Why?
I decided to drop the Schuberth R2 from this list due to limited availability and replace it with a much better overall helmet anyway. The AGV K6 is a force to be reckoned with, and I’ll explain why.
Having a carbon fiber helmet option in the sub $500 price range is one thing, but having a full face DOT and ECE approved helmet come in under 3 pounds is just insane. This helmet, despite its wickedly rigid construction, manages to tip the scales at a meager 2.95 lb. That’s lighter than some of the best open-faced helmets available.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: intermediate oval
Weight: 3.69 lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT & ECE certified
Our Review
We haven't reviewed the AGV K6 hands-on yet, but we're changing that this year. See all our AGV coverage.
HJC RPHA70
Price: Up to $375
Where to Buy: RevZilla | Amazon | J&P Cycles
Why?
The RPHA70 is HJC's latest offering in the mid-range segment, and it definitely punches above its weight (and price). It brings a lot of value, with an included anti-fog insert, an integrated sunshade, and excellent ventilation. It's hard to beat a combination like that.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Intermediate oval
Weight: 3.4lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT & ECE certified
Our Review
Made in Korea, this HJC was reviewed hands-on by Brandon back in January of 2018. He loved how smooth the visor controls were and how freely it flowed air. Fit and finish were also impressive, though he noted that he wished accessing the lower vent was less of a hassle. Read the full review.
Nexx X.WST2
Price: Up to $399
Where to Buy: RevZilla | Amazon
Why?
A lot of helmets out there on the market are aimed at sports riders, retro and neo-retro riders, ADV riders, and the like. For the longest time, no one seemed to be focusing on the sport touring rider, and Nexx decided to fix that with the X Wild Street Touring 2, or X.WST2 for short.
A true mid-range helmet, the shell of the X.WST2 is made of interwoven fiberglass, organic 3D fibers, aramid, and carbon fiber, which makes the helmet extremely resilient. The shell, while having what seem to be sharp angles, has been tuned to keep your head as stable as possible in the airflow while riding, and preventing lift or dip on the helmet.
A fully removable padding and liner system helps air out the helmet after a ride. As the helmet is meant for sport touring, a drop down sun visor behind the main visor is included.
The Nexx X.WST2 helmet carries DOT certification.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Intermediate oval
Weight: 3.66 lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT certified
Our Review
We have not yet tested the X.WST2 since it was released in Europe first, and has just recently made it over to North America. We will pursue getting a review sample, however, so we can give you the full details on the helmet. See all our Nexx coverage.
Scorpion EXO-R1 Air Carbon
Price: $549
Where to Buy: RevZilla | Amazon | J&P Cycles
Why?
In 2020, Scorpion USA released the EXO-R1 Air helmet as a street-going homologation version of their EXO-R1 GP MotoGP and WorldSBK competition helmets. These helmets received rave reviews and very little, if anything, was found to be wrong with them, unless you got extremely nitpick-y.
Released in Q2 2021, the EXO-R1 Air Carbon takes the same design of the EXO-R1, and replaces the fiberglass and aramid weave with full 3K carbon fiber weave construction. This is the same grade carbon fiber specification that is used in aircraft manufacturing, so it is extremely strong, yet flexible enough to dissipate some impact force all on its own.
The helmet combines that with a very quiet shell shape that literally cuts the air more than ramming into it, and one of the largest visors you can get on the market today. The ventilation system, while simple, is extremely effective, and the AirFit inflatable cheek pad system ensures you have a tight but comfortable fit, every ride.
The R1 Air Carbon carries DOT and ECE 22.05 certifications.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Intermediate oval
Weight: 3.1lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT & ECE 22.05 certified
Our Review
We were able to spend some time with the EXO-R1 Air Carbon in the real world, riding in different weather conditions and at different times of day. Read our review here!
Shoei RF1400
Price: $529
Where to Buy: RevZilla | Amazon | J&P Cycles
Why?
Released in very late 2020, the RF1400 is the follow up to the highly rated and well loved RF1200. Shoei really did their homework when designing the RF1400, and it has improved aerodynamics and a quieter experience. Part of this is down to shaping the air travelling around the helmet, and part of it is with reworking the shell and EPS lining.
The biggest change in terms of noise are the ventilation cover sliders, which are much more aerodynamic than the ones on the previous helmet. This cuts down on any chances of interference whistling, as air will flow over the new sliders instead of being forced into a vortex that would create high pitched noise. On top of it all, the RF1400 has full SNELL M2020 certification and a superb UK SHARP 4 star rating.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Intermediate oval
Weight: 3.62 lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT and SNELL M2020 certified
Our Review
Jim was able to spend quite some time on the road wearing one of the first RF1400's sent out to reviewers in December of 2020. He raved about the field of vision, the quality of the ventilation, and the fact that the noise isolation in the helmet is superior to pretty much anything out there. Read the full review here!
Best High-End Full Face Motorcycle Helmets
Priced over $550.
Arai Signet-X
Price: $699
Where to Buy: RevZilla | Amazon | J&P Cycles
Why?
For years now, the Arai Signet-X (or QV-Pro in the EU) has been one of the, if not the, top rated long-oval helmet. End of story.
That rating and recommendation carries through into 2022, with the helmet still maintaining its excellent handmade fiberglass and aramid weave shell. The helmet has a slightly redone layering of the EPS that came out in mid-2021 (adding slightly more temple protection), but otherwise it has not changed all that much since its original release.
The Signet-X has full SNELL M2020 and M2020b certification, and is one of the very few full face helmets to receive a perfect 5 star score from UK SHARP labs.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Long oval
Weight: 3.53 lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT & SNELL M2020 certified
Our Review
The Arai Signet-X is the answer for riders with “Narrow” head shapes and it brings all of the new Arai “X” features to their “Long Oval” head shape helmet, completing the triumvirate. Read the full 3,000+ word review.
Bell Race Star Flex DLX RSD The Zone
Price: $869
Where to Buy: RevZilla | Amazon | J&P Cycles
Why?
Constructed using the latest in carbon-fiber technology and developed through extensive wind tunnel and track testing, the Race Star's design features a superlight 3K Carbon Shell, Raceview ergonomics for unmatched visibility, and the three-layer Flex Impact Liner to manage slow, mid, and high energy impacts.
The Panavision viewport provides excellent visibility even in a full tucked position, and the photochromatic visor will automatically adjust to changing light conditions.
This is the pinnacle of Bell helmets, the full trim package with every option they offer. Well worth the dollars for the level of function and safety provided.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Intermediate oval
Weight: 3.57lbs
DOT or ECE? DOT & SNELL M2020 certified
Our Review
We have not yet reviewed the Bell Race Star Flex DLX, but we have dozens of other Bell helmet reviews. See our Bell coverage here.
AGV Pista GP RR Futuro Forgiato
Price: $1749
Where to Buy: RevZilla | Amazon | J&P Cycles
Why?
The AGV Pista GP RR Futuro Forgiato Helmet is an exact replica of helmets worn by world championship racers. It meets stringent FIM Racing Homologation standards and provides the highest level of protection, even against glancing impacts that can cause rotational motion.
The forged carbon fiber shell comes in 4 shell sizes to provide optimum fit at any size. Everything about this lid is meant to provide optimum performance at high speed in a full tuck. The finely tuned shape is aggressive but retains excellent sightlines out, and is quite stable even in buffetting air.
It does not get any better for the rider seeking the ultimate performance, pedigree, and style.
Key Specs & Head Shape
Head shape: Intermediate oval
Weight: 3.31lbs
DOT or ECE? Even better - FIM Certified
Our Review
We have not yet reviewed the Pista GP RR, but we have dozens of other AGV helmet reviews. See our AGV coverage here.
Other Best Helmet Lists
See all our recommended riding gear.
What To Look For In A Full Face Helmet
Like all helmets, open face helmets come with a list of items to pay particular attention to. More complex than every other type of helmet, knowing what to look for can be the difference between an awesome experience and a terrible one.
Look For:
DOT/ECE certifications—Many inexpensive full face helmets showing up on Amazon and eBay are not DOT or ECE certified. This certification may save your life. Don’t cheap out—remember, you’re preparing for the slide, not the ride.
Comfort— Most of the helmets featured on this page use lightweight materials to minimize neck strain—useful, especially on long rides.
Head shape—While most people are an intermediate oval, not all are. Make sure you get a helmet designed for your head shape.
Shell material—Polycarbonate is okay, but you’d be better served with carbon fiber (expensive) or fiberglass. All the helmets called out here (save for one) are fiberglass.
Interior liner—All the helmets featured here offer removable liners that are anti-moisture and anti-bacterial. Avoid non-removable liners (found in cheap helmets)—it’ll be a stink factory before you know it.
Read the complete motorcycle helmet buyer's guide for more information.
At WBW, “Best” Actually Means Something
Remember when you could open up a review of something, and when the publication—magazine, car show, whatever—said “best” they stood behind it? Yea, we remember, and we’re bringing it back.
Here’s how we do things:
We disclose our affiliate relationships—We make money via advertising and affiliate relationships on our website. It’s how we pay our team and invest in things like sending Jim to Italy. And Japan. And France… wait… why do we always send Jim places?
We obsessively hands-on test—We wear and ride with gear before reviewing it, and we update reviews down the line if our opinions change. We look at real-world situations because that’s the world we live in.
We’re objective—Good gear is good gear, regardless of who made it.
We’re value-focused—Why pay $500 if something for $250 is just as good? Our review scores and recommendations reflect best value. Brand only goes so far—the gear has to stand on its own.
